With Everton finally back in Premier League action on Saturday, there is a quiet confidence that this enforced break will have done the visitors the world of good.
After all, it had been a torrid past few months for the Toffees, who remain winless in the Premier League since their mid-December victory over Burnley.
The playing squad were looking tired and devoid of confidence or ideas, and hopefully three weeks of no club football, plus a training trip to Portugal, will have remedied that situation.
It promises to be a keen tactical battle regardless, as two managers with direct styles of play clash at the Vitality Stadium.
What Andoni Iraola said about Everton
With Sean Dyche having previewed his match with the Cherries by detailing what he admires about their style of play and adaptability, Andoni Iraola, their boss, was equally complimentary about the visitors.
After all, he essentially detailed exactly where the game will be won for Everton, should they taste victory for the first time in the Premier League since December.
However, knowing something and stopping it are two completely different things.
He noted, in his press conference earlier today: ‘I think there will be very physical duels. Their midfield will be key because they play with a lot of physicality and quality on the ball.
‘We have to at least match their level because if they start winning every second ball and imposing themselves in the middle, it’s going to be difficult.’
Everton’s midfield will be crucial vs AFC Bournemouth
As a side that loves to go direct and then press high from the front, Everton’s midfield will be crucial in quelling their main threat.
After all, if they can successfully accept the ball and move it forward, bypassing their press, the Toffees will have a free run at their backline. That is where the likes of Abdoulaye Doucoure, Dwight McNeil and Jack Harrison can truly thrive.
Fortunately, Dyche is blessed with an energetic pairing in the engine room, both of which boast the required technical prowess.
James Garner and Amadou Onana are a couple of hard-working engineers, who have showcased their prowess in possession throughout this season.
When full of confidence, their combinations have been mesmeric at times, but recent months have not been kind to them or the Everton squad.
Fortunately, this recent much-needed break will likely have afforded them the necessary rest to now return, unburdened by the stresses of this season, and ready to claim an all-important three points.
Iraola is right to point out the threat. His job is now to figure out a way of stopping it.
